Greek-Operated Patriot System Shoots Down Drones Over Saudi Oil Refineries
A Greek-operated Patriot air defense system in Saudi Arabia intercepted drones in the Yanbu region on Thursday, marking the third time the system has been deployed in combat.
The Yanbu area is home to major oil refineries and is of strategic importance to Saudi Arabia due to its large oil industry facilities.
Greece deployed a battery of the American Patriot system in Saudi Arabia in 2021 as part of an agreement to assist the kingdom in protecting critical energy infrastructure.
The Greek Patriot battery has been involved in protecting Saudi Arabia's energy infrastructure from air attacks, with sources within the Greek security forces confirming the use of the air defense system.
Greece is considering bringing back the Patriot air defense battery from Saudi Arabia and plans to strengthen Crete's air defense with Patriot systems, which it will purchase from Israel for €3.5 billion.